Admission and

Academic Information

We want to make enrolling at Orange Coast College as convenient and easy as possible. It begins when the student completes and files an application form online at orangecoastcollege.edu or in person.

New students take assessment tests in English, reading and math. A chemistry placement test is also offered. These tests are designed to help the student select courses which will lead to academic success.

Assessment testing is followed by an orientation and counseling session. Counselors help with the selection of appropriate courses and provide the permit to register.

These activities are followed by the actual registration process: signing up for classes and paying fees.

If a choice of a major is any one of the many allied health career programs, students must participate in a special admission process, in addition to the activities described above. Additional information may be found in this section.

Entrance Requirements

Admission to Orange Coast College is granted to those applicants who meet one of the following requirements:

• High school graduation.

• Certificate of Proficiency or a G.E.D. from the State of California.

• Attainment of 18 years of age and who, in the judgment of college officials, is capable of profiting from instruction at the college.

• Enrollment in the 11th or 12th grade and recommendation for advanced academic or vocational college level study.

Students enrolled as 11th or 12th grade students may enroll for courses at Orange Coast College under provisions of the Education Code, sections 76001 or 76001.5, and in accordance with the district’s policy and the following guidelines:

• Students must be enrolled as 11th or 12th grade students at their schools.

• The course is an advanced academic or vocational experience for the student and not available at their regular school.

• Students must have letters of permission, signed by the parent and principal or designee of their school, recommending the specific course or courses.

• Students who have not completed the 10th grade may inquire through the appropriate Division Office regarding their eligibility for specific advanced coursework. If approved, the student must obtain the permission of the respective Division Dean and faculty and attend an appointment scheduled through the Office of the Dean of Enrollment Services, accompanied by a parent.

International students who are, or intend to be under F-1 visa status should contact the International Center directly for entrance requirements (please see page 31.)

Application

An application for admission is required for all students. Application forms may be accessed through the OCC web site at www.orangecoastcollege.edu or picked up in person at the OCC Admissions Office. International students should contact the International Student Center regarding admission to the college.

Transcripts

Students who have completed English or mathematics coursework at another college or university must submit those transcripts for evaluation to the Admissions or Matriculation window in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center, before enrolling in any course with an English or mathematics prerequisite.

Official college transcripts are required to receive credit toward the Associate Degree. Certificates of Achievement, transfer certification, all awards/ credit and advisement. Orange Coast College reserves the right to evaluate work completed at other colleges in accordance with campus policies.

Official student transcripts of records from other institutions become the property of Orange Coast College. Students with transcripts from countries outside the United States must first submit their transcripts to an evaluation service. Please contact the Counseling Office for information regarding these services.

Priority Registration Policy

The Coast Community College District is committed to the philosophy that all students should have fair and equitable access to courses and programs within the resources of each college and in accordance with State Education Code, Title 5 provisions and guidelines adopted by the Board of Governors. Further, the District believes that students should be able to progress toward their stated educational objective in a timely manner.

The primary mission of the District colleges is to provide transfer and vocational courses and programs. Therefore, priority is extended to matriculated students who have demonstrated progress toward their declared educational objectives, the completion of their transfer requirements, and/or the completion of a degree or vocational certificate.

Enrollment priority is the process used to determine the order in which students will have the opportunity to register for classes. Recognizing that each college serves a unique student population that may have differing needs, the development of specific registration priorities will be done at the college level in accordance with District procedures.

Contact the Dean, Enrollment Services for additional information.

Matriculation

The purpose of matriculation is to ensure access to programs and courses for all students who can benefit and to facilitate successful completion of each student’s educational objectives.

On the college’s part, the matriculation agreement includes providing an admissions process; orientation to college programs, services and procedures; pre-enrollment assessment and counseling; advisement and counseling for course selection; a suitable curriculum or program of courses, and continuous follow-up of student progress with referral to appropriate support services when needed.

On the student’s part, the agreement calls for an expression of at least a broad educational intent at entrance and the willingness to declare a specific educational objective within a reasonable period of enrollment. Diligence in class attendance, completion of assigned coursework and maintenance of progress toward an educational goal are requirements for student success.

Course Prerequisite,
Corequisite and Advisory on Recommended Preparation

A “prerequisite” is a course a student is required to complete with a “C” or better, or a skill a student is required to have before enrolling in another course. A “corequisite” is a course a student is required to take at the same time he or she is enrolled in another course. All prerequisites and corequisites are designed to ensure students have the skills or information they need to succeed in a course. These requirements are established because it has been determined that without meeting them, a student is not likely to receive a passing grade in the course. A prerequisite or corequisite may also be necessary to protect a student’s health and safety or the health and safety of others. Additionally, courses taken without prior completion of the prerequisite may be denied credit upon transfer to a CSU or UC per articulation agreements, either at time of admission or upon petition for graduation.

An “Advisory on recommended preparation” (listed as “Advisory”) is a course or skill a student should have before enrolling in another course. This is advice offered by the faculty who teach these courses, and it should be followed for student success. However, unlike a prerequisite or corequisite, “Advisory” is not required.

Course Prerequisite and Corequisite Challenge Process

A prerequisite and corequisite challenge requires written explanation and documentation of alternative coursework, professional or educational background, or demonstrated abilities which adequately prepare a student for the course. A Prerequisite Challenge Form can be obtained from the appropriate instructional division office. Students must follow the directions on the Challenge Form.

A student must file the prerequisite/corequisite Challenge Form no later than two weeks prior to the first day of instruction. The college will respond to the challenge within five working days. If the college fails to do so, the student will be admitted to the class that has the prerequisite and/or corequisite by the first day of the semester, providing that the course section was open on the date the student filed the challenge.

Reasons for filing a prerequisite/corequisite challenge may include one or more of the following:

1) A prerequisite/corequisite course has not been reasonably available or offered during the past two years.

2) The prerequisite has been established unlawfully, is unlawfully discriminatory, or is being applied in a discriminatory manner.

3) The student has the documented knowledge or demonstrated ability to succeed in the course without having completed the prerequisite/corequisite course. The burden of proof is upon the student.

A grade lower than a “C” in a prerequisite course may NOT be challenged through this process.

Decisions on challenges of pre-requisite/ corequisite course listings will be made by a committee of two college instructional staff members, at least one of whom will be a faculty member knowledgeable about the discipline, but not the faculty member assigned to teach the course section for which the challenge is being made.

Assessment and Placement Test Requirements

Testing in English, ESL and mathematics is mandatory prior to enrolling in an English, ESL or math class. Students may not register in a level higher than what is indicated on the test results. If the student believes he or she can successfully complete a course above the level indicated, the student can submit an appeal to the respective Division Dean for the discipline. Any appeal must be made before the student is enrolled in the placement course and begun attending class. All placements are based on both test results and student background data.

If English is not the student’s native language, he or she should make an appointment to take the ESL Assessment Test, which can correctly place the student in ESL courses or in regular English courses. The regular English test may not accurately measure the reading, writing and speaking skills of non-native speakers and placement results may not be accurate for success in the course.

To take any placement test, go in person to the Assessment Center in Watson Hall or call (714) 432-5789. International students must first contact the International Center.

Admission to School of
Allied Health Professions

Admission into Allied Health Professions programs is limited for several reasons:

• Training in any health care needs to meet an identified community need.

• Available clinical sites for hands on experience is limited.

• Educators must meet stringent qualifications.

• Availability of specialized equipment in highly technical laboratories is limited.

General Program Requirements

The following programs require Allied Health A010 prerequisite:

• Cardiovascular Technology
Electrocardiology
Echocardiology

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography

• Dietetic Technician

• Neurodiagnostic Technology

• Polysomnographic Technology

• Radiology Technology

• Respiratory Care

• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Allied Health A010 is optional for the following programs

• Dental Assisting – Registered

• Emergency Medical Technology

• Medical Assisting

• Medical Transcription

• Student Heath Assistant

Admission

Taking Allied Health A010 is the optimal method to determine career choices and apply to a specific program. Admission criteria includes date of application through Allied Health A010 and date of completion of specific required prerequisite courses. Applicants to impacted programs will need to complete (or show proof of completion) of all Associate in Science general education requirements.

Clinical

• Admission into the clinical phase of a program requires students be in good physical and mental health. A physical examination is required that includes blood testing, TB testing, and vaccinations.

• A criminal background check is required

• Students must adhere to a specific dress code and wear picture identification badges

• Students must have reliable transportation to off-campus clinical sites

General

• Students should have adequate financial support so as not to jeopardize their academic achievement and clinical experiences by extensive outside employment.

• Many programs have external licensing/certification examination with specific requirements.

• Many programs require completion of the Associate in Science degree. Students will need to complete (or show proof of completion) of all Associate in Science degree general education requirements.

Course Recency for Programs that Require the Following Prerequisites

Biology A221 – Anatomy-Physiology: must have been successfully completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better within a five-year period of the initial application date for the specific program.

Human Development A180 – Child Develop-ment: must be successfully completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better within a five-year period of the initial application date for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program.

Allied Health A111 – Medical Terminology: must have been successfully completed with a grade of ‘C’ or better within a five-year period of the initial application date for the specific program.

If the course is greater than five years old and the student has been working in a field that requires application of this course material, the student may ask for a waiver of the recency requirement. This waiver will require a letter from the employer indicating the need and utilization of the course material. Otherwise, prerequisite courses listed above that have exceeded the five-year limit must be re-taken. Final waiver determination is by the program director.

Re-Entry into an Allied Health Program

Up to two years: A student withdrawing from a School of Allied Health program may re-enter that specific program within two years, contingent upon available space within the program. Re-entry must not compromise the educational continuity. Re-entry is allowed one time only. Final decision is determined by the program director. The program director may require the re-entry student to repeat core classes already taken by auditing or through learning contract.

Greater than two years: A student withdrawing from a School of Allied Health program for greater than two years will be required to re-apply to the program and be placed on the appropriate list as a new applicant. Any core classes that were successfully completed will need to be repeated for education content and continuity through auditing or through a learning contract process.

OCC Fees

California legislation requires the college to charge student enrollment fees. Student fees are:

• Enrollment fee of $20 per unit (at time of publication) for students meeting California residency requirements.

• $30 parking permit

• $14 health service fee

• $15 College Services charge*

• Material fees as listed in the current class schedule

• All fees subject to change without notice

* The college services charge provides services and benefits, e.g., the Library Computer Lab, Bookstore buyback, Robert B. Moore Theater discounts, free tutoring, interest-free emergency loans, student activities, and legal advice. Students may present their request for waiver of the college services charge to the Dean of Student Services Office prior to registration (714) 432-5730.

Students not meeting California residency requirements are required to pay a per unit non-resident fee in addition to the enrollment fee. Students who are citizens and residents of other countries are required to pay an additional per unit capital outlay fee. All fees quoted are at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Student Health Center services include no-cost visits with doctors, registered nurses, and the mental health team, in addition to other services at reduced rates.

The student health service fee is mandated unless students present a waiver prior to registration. Those eligible for a waiver are:

• Students who depend solely on prayer for healing in accordance with the teachings of a bona fide religious sect, denomination, or organization. For more information, phone (714) 432-5730. For information and/or waiver, contact the Dean of Students Office prior to initial registration.

• Students in courses of less than two weeks duration.

• Students enrolled only in non-credit
courses.

• Students enrolled only in study abroad programs.

Student Photo I.D. Cards are required for use in the Bookstore, Library and for other transactions with the college. This card may be used in succeeding semesters when properly validated. Students will be required to replace any lost, stolen or unusable card.

In accordance with regulations of the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges, Title 5, California Administrative Code, Section 59400 et seq., the Coast Community College District shall provide free of charge to students all instructional materials, except for the following materials which the student may purchase from the district at cost or may be provided through the student’s own means.

• Optional Instructional Materials: Materials used to enhance the student’s learning experience in the classroom, but that are not essential to the completion of course objectives.

• Required Instructional Materials:
Materials required to complete the objectives of the course and that are tangible property of continuing value outside the classroom which the student will retain.

The college shall have the discretion to either charge or not charge a fee for instructional materials of the types indicated above. Such fees will cover actual district costs.

Refund Policy

State regulations require that students must withdraw prior to the first 10% of a course in order to be eligible for a refund of fees. Students can view refund deadlines at MyOCC or in the printed class schedule. Official withdrawals by the refund deadline will result in a credit to the student’s registration account of the fees associated with the course that was dropped.

Students withdrawing from all classes may request a refund of all fees paid including the Student Health Services Fee, the College Services Charge, non-resident tuition, etc., provided the student withdraws prior to the refund deadline for each class in which he/she was enrolled. To receive a refund of the Parking Fee, the student must withdraw from all classes and the parking decal must be returned/postmarked on or before the earliest refund deadline date of the classes in which the student is enrolled.

In the case of cancelled classes, registration fees associated with that class will be refunded. If the only class a student is taking is cancelled, the parking decal must be returned within 14 days of the class cancellation date.

Refunds will be automatically processed beginning the third week of the term and each week thereafter until the end of the term. Refunds will be made by check and mailed to the student’s address on file.

Residence Requirements

California Residence

Verification of residence status may be required. Generally California residence is established by one of the following:

1. If the applicant is under the age of 18, his or her parents must have had legal residence within the State of California for 12 consecutive months preceding the day before the first day of the semester.

2. If the applicant is 18 but not yet 19 years of age, the applicant and the applicant’s parents must have had legal residence within the State of California for 12 consecutive months preceding the day before the first day of the semester.

3. If the applicant is 19 years of age or older, the applicant must have had legal residence within the State of California for 12 consecutive months preceding the day before the first day of the semester. If the applicant’s parents or legal guardians reside out-of-state, the student must be financially independent. (See Non-California Residents #2).

4. A non-immigrant holding a status that does not preclude the student from establishing residency in California must have legal residence in California for 12 consecutive months preceding the day before the first day of the semester and a restrictive immigration status dated at least one year and one day prior to the semester start date.

Persons generally ineligible to establish California residency include: students under age 18, students dependent on out-of-state parents/guardians, students with certain non-immigrant status, etc. For further information regarding who is eligible to establish residency, contact the residency desk at OCC Admissions.

Non-California Residents

Students who do not meet the California residence requirements as of the day immediately preceding the first day of the semester or summer session are required to pay the non-resident tuition fees. This includes:

1. Minors (under 18 years of age and not married) will be required to pay the non-resident tuition fee if their parents or legal guardians reside outside the state even though such minors may have lived in the State of California for one year or more.

2. Students who are financially dependent on their parents or legal guardians will be required to pay non-resident tuition if their parents or legal guardians reside outside the state even though such students may have lived in the State of California for one year or more.

3. Students holding non-immigrant status that precludes them from establishing residency in California may be restricted in their enrollment and will have to pay non-resident tuition. In addition, students with such status who are citizens of other countries are required to pay an additional per unit capital outlay fee. See the class schedule for the amount of the fee.

Exceptions authorized by the State of California:

• Active military personnel are exempt from
non-resident tuition fees provided they are in California for a purpose other than attending a state-supported institution of higher learning.

• Dependents of military personnel stationed on active duty in California are classified as a resident.

• Non-resident students who have completed three years of high school in California and graduated in California (or equivalency) may file an affidavit for waiver of non-resident fees (AB540).

International Students

Orange Coast College (OCC) is authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to admit international students under F-1 or M-1 visa status.

At OCC, we believe that our international students provide ethnic and cultural diversity to the campus and help increase the awareness and understanding of students from other countries and cultures. Conversely, we provide an opportunity for international students to study in the United States and learn about our culture and us.

Interested international students should request application for admission by mail from the International Center at Orange Coast College, P.O. Box 5005, Costa Mesa, California 92628-5005 USA or by e-mailing the International Center at intctr@cccd.edu. An application packet can also be downloaded by visiting the International Center’s link on the prospective student section of the Orange Coast College’s Web Site at: www.orangecoastcollege.edu.

Our rolling admission process allows for acceptance to OCC during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semester or term. Applicants outside the U.S. should submit all required documents at least two months prior to the start of the semester. Approximate semesters start dates are late August for Fall, late January for Spring, and early June for Summer.

The following are admission requirements for international students who are, or intend to be under F-1 visa status:

• Completed and signed international student application

• Application fee in the amount of $30 in U.S. dollars

• Passport-size photograph

• Typed written statement (1-2 pages): Applicants can discuss their academic goals, experiences, and the reasons for their interest in OCC

• Academic records: All evidence of academic records equivalent to high school graduation or higher, demonstrating successful academic achievement. The transcripts of the original records must be accompanied by a notarized English translation. In addition, international students who are in the U.S. under F-1 status must submit all of their academic records from the institutions they have attended in the U.S.

• English requirement: A score of 500 (paper-based) or 173 (internet-based) or 61 (internet-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the EIKEN STEP Pre-First Grade level. For applicants in the U.S., an equivalent placement on the OCC’s English Assessment Test (EAT) can be used to satisfy the English requirement. Applicants in the U.S. can also use the appropriate level in one of the English language programs with which Orange Coast College has agreement to satisfy this requirement. Applicants can contact the International Center for a complete list of these schools.

• Confidential financial support documentation: Sponsor’s information and verification of support, as well as an original bank statement verifying sufficient amount is required. Additional documentation may be required upon reviewing applicant’s file. Financial forms can be obtained from the International Center or downloaded from the International Center web site at: http://www.orangecoastcollege.edu/prospective_student/international_students/

• Immigration-related documents: Applicants in the U.S. must submit copies of all
immigration-related documents along with their application.

International students must enroll in and complete a minimum of 12 units each semester with a minimum 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) in order to maintain their valid F-1 status. In addition, all international students must maintain continuous medical coverage that is provided through the International Center throughout their studies at OCC. All international students pay non-resident tuition fees in addition to all other applicable fees during their entire attendance at OCC.

DHS prohibits international students from unauthorized employment. International students must obtain approval from the DHS and the International Center before they engage in any on- or off- campus employment.

For further information, please contact the International Center by telephone at (714) 432-5940 or via e-mail at intctr@cccd.edu or visit the International Center located on the 2nd floor of Watson Hall.

Students with Visas

Students with the types of visas listed below, otherwise eligible for admission, may enroll for a maximum of 6 units provided they are proficient in English and have a valid status that does not expire before the end of the term for which they are enrolling.

A — Career Diplomat

E — Foreign Investor

G — International Treaty Organization Representatives and Dependents

H — Temporary Worker and Dependents

I — Foreign Press

J — Exchange Visitor

K — Fiance´(e)

L — Intra-Company Transferee and Dependents

A student who is precluded from establishing domicile in the United States shall not be classified as a resident unless and until he or she has been granted a change in status by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to a classification which permits establishing domicile and has met other residency requirements.

Veterans, Active Duty Military and Credit for Military Training

Orange Coast College is approved for training veterans under all applicable laws. The college helps veterans by cooperating with the Veterans Administration and the California State Department of Veterans Affairs. Orange Coast College is a Servicemen Opportunity College (SOC) and establishes policies and programs for educating veterans and active-duty military personnel.

Some benefits are available for active-duty personnel. Those personnel must be attending college on their own time and must have served at least two years.

Orange Coast College recognizes and grants academic credit to veterans for eligible military service and training credit completed in the armed forces. Orange Coast College reserves the right to evaluate and grant credit based on the academic policies established at OCC. Veterans may apply for evaluation of this credit by presenting authentic military service and training records to the Veteran’s Clerk, including a copy of discharge papers. Awarded credit will be applied once the student has completed 12 units at Orange Coast College. Credit earned for military training may count toward satisfying requirements for the Associate Degrees; Military credit awarded may not transfer to other colleges. Veterans are advised to check with the college they plan to transfer to for information regarding awarding military credit. Under no circumstances will OCC graduate a student who has not completed 12 units of Orange Coast College coursework.

Transfer to Other Colleges

Students can complete up to two years of coursework at Orange Coast College before transferring to another college or university. Many programs are available which qualify students for junior standing in most four-year colleges and universities in the United States. Students planning to transfer should consult the catalog of the college or university in which they are interested. With a counselor’s assistance, students can select Orange Coast College courses which satisfy the lower division requirements of that college or university.

Catalogs of schools, colleges and universities are available in the Counseling Center, the Transfer Center and in the library. Also, be sure to see the Transfer Information section of this catalog.

Upon written request from the student, a transcript from OCC will be sent to another college or university. The first two transcripts and/or verification of record are provided free. Each additional transcript or verification of record costs $3.

Study Load and Student Classification

The average student, enrolled full-time in classes at Orange Coast College, carries 15 units during a semester. This load requires most students to spend 40-45 hours each week preparing for and attending classes. The College recommends that entering freshmen carrying a full academic load (15 or more units) plan to work no more than 12-16 hours each week. Students having a poor high school record—below a “C” average—probably should work no more than 6-8 hours each week.

No OCC student may carry more than 19 units during a semester, 9 units during summer, or 5 units during intersession without the permission of the OCC Dean of Counseling Services. This maximum applies to the combination of all units in which the student enrolls per semester/term in the Coast Community Colleges (Orange Coast, Golden West and Coastline).

Students are classified as follows:

Freshman—

A student who has completed fewer
than 30 units.

Sophomore—

A student who has completed 30 or
more units.

Part-time—

A student carrying fewer than 12 units.
(for Summer session, fewer than 6 units)

Full-time—

A student carrying 12 or more units.
(for Summer session, 6 or more units)

Remedial Coursework Limits

No more than 30 semester units of course credit may be assigned to a student for remedial coursework except when the student is enrolled in one or more courses in English as a Second Language or is identified as having a learning disability. This limit may be waived if the student can show significant and/or measurable progress toward the development of skills appropriate to enrollment in college-level courses. Students needing remedial instruction beyond the course credit restrictions set forth in this section shall be referred to appropriate non-credit adult basic education programs conducted by an adult school.

Alternate Methods of Study and Course Credit

Orange Coast College recognizes work taken at other accredited colleges. Additionally college credit is awarded in the following areas:

Credit by Examination

Credit by Examination may be offered on a limited basis at the discretion of the respective Instructional Division. Students who have completed a minimum of 12 units at Orange Coast College, with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.4 (C+) may inquire in the respective Division Office regarding eligible courses. If the course is eligible, students may petition through the Division Office and seek approval. Since Credit by Examination may not transfer to other institutions, students are strongly recommended to make an appointment with a counselor. The final approval is determined by the respective Division Office.

1. Contact the respective Division Office to determine course eligibility for Credit by Examination.

2. If eligible, obtain and complete the petition from the respective Division Office and attach an official or unofficial OCC transcript showing successful completion of a minimum of 12 units at OCC prior to petition, AND a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.4 or higher. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

3. If the petition is approved by the Dean and the faculty, take the petition to the Registration area of the Student Records Office to file your petition for credit and make payment no later than the third week of the semester.

4. Meet with the instructor at the agreed upon time and place and take the examination. Exam grades are final and will be posted to the transcript. Failure to successfully complete the examination will result in an unsatisfactory grade.

Students should not enroll in the course to be taken as credit by examination. The course credit is clearly identified on the students’ transcript and designated as “Credit by Examination.” Transfer-ability of credit by examination is subject to review by other colleges and universities, and may not transfer. Units earned by examination are excluded from enrollment verifications and OCC residence requirements for the Associate Degrees.

Online Learning at Orange Coast College

As an important instructional tool and delivery system, the World Wide Web is used to enhance instruction at Orange Coast College in a wide variety of ways. Online learning opportunities at OCC include courses taught partially or completely via the Internet, as well as campus-based classes that include online materials and activities. All online courses are equivalent to their campus counterparts. Many of the online instructional modules offer students new and highly stimulating modes of learning.

Consult the OCC schedule of classes for more information about online courses.

CLEP – College Level
Examination Program

Orange Coast College grants a maximum of 24 units for any combination of CLEP general exams and subject exams, using as minimum standards a score at or above 500 on the general exams and 50 on the subject exams, and 50 for all CLEP computer-based exams. CLEP scores count toward graduation requirements at OCC under General Education Option 1 or Option 2 but are not used to certify general education requirements for transfer. CLEP credit granted at OCC does not transfer to other colleges. The respective college or university determines eligibility for CLEP units, according to their policies. CLEP scores must be submitted for evaluation directly to the college or university where the student requests credit. The University of California does not grant credit for CLEP exams. The California State University will accept some CLEP exams; however, policies including exams accepted and scores required differ on each campus. CLEP policies for each four-year college can be found in their catalogs.

Students may request CLEP credit through Student Records in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center. Submission of official exam results is required prior to any evaluation and posting of credit. Exam results and units granted are posted on the student’s transcript after completion of 12 units of course work at OCC. Credit for CLEP exams is granted as follows:

A. General Examinations:

Option 1:

English Composition – 3 units in Area A1 and 3 units of elective credit

Humanities – 3 units in Area C1 and 3 units of elective credit

Mathematics – 3 units in Area A2 (also meets math graduation requirement) and 3 units of elective credit

Natural Science – 6 units in Area B

Social Science – 3 units in Area D2 and 3 units of elective credit

Option 2:

English Composition – 3 units in A2 and 3 units of elective credit

Humanities – 3 units in Area C1 and 3 units in Area C2

Mathematics – 3 units in Area B4 and 3 units of elective credit

Natural Science – 3 units in Area B1 and 3 units in Area B2 (does not meet lab requirement)

Social Science – 3 units in Area D (does not meet American history and political science requirement) and 3 units of elective credit

B. Subject Examinations:

3 units of credit are granted in the discipline for each Subject Examination and meet elective credit or subject area requirements in both Option 1 and Option 2 for graduation purposes.

Please see a counselor for other kinds of standardized college-level examinations. For more information, call the Testing Office, (714) 432-5789.

Credit by Advanced
Placement

Orange Coast College grants academic credit towards an Associate Degree for successful completion of examinations of the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board. Students may apply for this credit by presenting official test scores to the Records window in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center. Advance Placement credit is granted at OCC according to the following policies:

1. Course credit granted for Advanced Placement Examinations can be used to meet OCC general education requirements for an A.A. degree under General Education Options 1, 2 or 3.

2. Course credit earned through Advanced Placement Examination can be used to certify general education requirements for transfer to UC under Option 3 (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum). AP credit can be used to certify general education for transfer to CSU under Option 2 (CSU General Education Breadth) or Option 3 (IGETC). Students certified using Option 3 can satisfy only one course requirement per exam on the IGETC.

3. Posting of Advanced Placement credit on the OCC transcript does not guarantee transfer to other colleges. The respective college or university determines eligibility for AP units, according to its policies. AP scores must be submitted for evaluation to the college or university where the student requests credit. Students planning to transfer should consult the catalog of the transfer institution to determine how AP credit is granted at that school.

4. Students are not given duplicate credit for college courses and exams.

Students should request Advanced Placement credit by submitting official AP test scores to the Student Records window in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center. Exams and courses for which credit is granted will be posted on the student’s transcript after completion of 12 units of course work at OCC as follows:

EXAMINATION SCORE UNITS COURSE

ART (STUDIO)

S/B 2-D Design Portfolio 3 3 Art A110

ART (HISTORY) 3 6 Art A100
& A101

BIOLOGY 3 4 Biology A100

CHEMISTRY 3 5 Chemistry A110

ECONOMICS

Macroeconomics 3 3 Economics
A180

Microeconomics 3 3 Economics
A185

ENGLISH

Composition & Lit 3 3 English A100 Language & Comp 3 3 English A100

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

French Lang 3 5 Fren A185

German Lang 3 5 Ger A185 Spanish Lang 3 5 Span A185

GOVERNMENT/POLITICS

Comparative 3 3 Pol Sci A185

HISTORY

American 3 6 Hist A170
& A175

European 3 6 Hist A180
& A185

MATHEMATICS

Calculus AB 3 4 Math A180

Calculus BC 3 4 Math A180

Calculus BC 5 4 Math A180
& A185

Statistics 3 3 Math A160

MUSIC

Listening &

Literature 3 3 Music A100

Theory 3 3 Music A115

PHYSICS

Physics B 3 4 Phys A110
& A111

Physics C1

(Mech.) 3 4 Physics A120 Physics C2

(Elect.&

Magnetism) 3 4 Physics A125

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology 3 3 Psychology
A100

Learning Contract for
Independent Study

This is an alternative method of college study. If the instructor and the Division Dean approve, a student may take any course in the Orange Coast College catalog on a contract basis. The number of units received and the prescribed hours of study follow the approved catalog description. Two kinds of independent study exist at Orange Coast College:

Contracted Studies

A student who, for one reason or another, cannot attend a class or classes may negotiate an Independent Study Contract by following these procedures:

1. Request a Learning Contract from the respective Division Office.

2. Request the permission of the instructor and ask the instructor to specify in detail in the context of the contract the way the student will master the study area and the criteria for evaluation.

3. Ask the instructor and Division Dean to approve the contract.

4. Take the contract personally to the Student Records window in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center. If the contract is approved, the enrollment Center will officially enroll the student in the course.

5. After the student completes the coursework, the instructor will certify the earned grade. Student Records will then record the grade on the student’s transcript.

Directed Studies

A student may take advanced coursework in a field of study after having completed the introductory courses. Most departments offer a set of directed study courses numbered A291-A295. In unusual cases, students may enroll in directed studies without completing the pertinent beginning courses. Directed Studies students must ask the instructor to fill out a Learning Contract for Independent Study and have it approved by the Division Dean. Follow the procedures given under Contracted Studies.

Course No. Units Clock hours per semester

A maximum credit of 3 units per term, 6 units total, in otherwise transferable subject areas is allowed. Letter grades are assigned for Directed Studies (grade only). Transfer credit for courses of this kind is contingent upon a review of the course outline by a University of California or California State University campus.

Study Abroad Program

The Coast Community College District Study Abroad program offers a variety of short-term programs contingent upon contractual agreements with service providers. For information on upcoming programs, visit www.cccd.edu/studyabroad.

ECC Kokusai College of Foreign Languages

Orange Coast College has established a transfer-in articulation agreement with ECC Kokusai College of Foreign Languages in Japan. Kokusai students transferring to Orange Coast College can receive credit for those courses that are listed on our respective colleges’ articulation agreement. These credits will count towards an associate degree at Orange Coast College. These credits are subject to review by those respective colleges and universities to which the student wishes to transfer.

International I.D. Cards

The International Center is listed as an issuing office for International I.D. Cards. The Center issues the International Teacher Identity Cards (ITIC), the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), and the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC). These cards provide access to special discounts and benefits while traveling internationally. For pricing information and eligibility requirements, please call the International Center at (714) 432-5940.

Military Study Programs

Orange Coast College recognizes and grants academic credit to veterans for eligible service and training completed in the armed forces. Orange Coast College reserves the right to evaluate and grant credit based on the academic policies established at OCC. Veterans may apply for academic credit earned through military service and training by presenting official military service and training records, including a copy of discharge papers, to Veteran’s Services in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center. Awarded credit will be applied once the student has completed 12 units at Orange Coast College. Credit earned for military training may count toward satisfying requirements for the Associate Degree; however, under no circumstances will OCC graduate a student who has not completed 12 units of Orange Coast College coursework.

Licensure Credit for
Radiologic Technologist

Forty-five units may be awarded for holders of valid Certified Radiologic Technologist State License (or equivalent agency). Students must show the original license to the office of Admissions and Records in order to be eligible for this credit. Credits are posted to transcripts upon completion of 12 units of credit at Orange Coast College.

Other Licensure Credit

Other licenses issued by the State of California will be considered through the Academic Petition Council procedures as appropriate.

Grades and Grade Points

Performance in courses is indicated by one of seven grades. Five of these grades signify passing work. Each grade and its value in grade points follows:

Grade Significance Grade Points

Per Unit

A Excellent 4

B Good 3

C Satisfactory 2

D Passing; less 1

than satisfactory

F Failing 0

P Pass; at least Hours awarded;

satisfactory not counted in

GPA

NP No Pass; not No Hours

satisfactory awarded;

or failing not counted in

GPA

The grade point average is calculated by dividing the number of quality points earned by the number of GPA hours for the grades of A, B, C, D, F. The grades of P and NP, and the symbols of IP, I, and W are not used in the grade point average calculation.

A disciplinary grade of “F” may be assigned for violations of the Academic Honesty Policy, consistent with the District Student Code of Conduct.

The following non-evaluative symbols may be used as defined. These symbols are not used when calculating the grade point average.

Abbreviation/Definition

W (Withdraw)

1. A “W” grade will be assigned for students who officially withdraw prior to the end of the twelfth week of the term for full semester classes, the sixth week of the term for eight-week classes, and 75 percent of the class for all other courses.

2. No notation (“W” or otherwise) is made on the permanent record of a student who withdraws by Friday of the fourth week of the term for full semester classes, or 30 percent of a class for all other classes.

Specific drop deadline dates can be found in the printed class schedule or on the web at MyOCC. Students are responsible for withdrawing from a class within the appropriate time to avoid an unsatisfactory grade. Students may drop a class using the MyOCC website, or by letter to the Admissions and Records Office postmarked prior to the drop deadline.

I (Incomplete)

If agreed upon between the instructor and the student or, if necessary, by the instructor alone, a student may receive an “I” grade when work in the class cannot be completed.

a. Most of the academic work must be completed and there must be a justifiable reason for receiving the incomplete.

b. The condition for removal of the incomplete shall be stated by the instructor in a written record.

c. An incomplete must be made up no later than one year following the end of the term in which it was assigned.

d. An incomplete not made up within the one-year limit changes to the alternate grade assigned by the instructor when the “I” was given.

e. A student may not re-enroll in a class in which an incomplete was awarded.

IP (In Progress)

The “IP” abbreviation is used only in those courses which extend beyond the usual academic term. The “IP” symbol remains on the student’s academic record to document enrollment, but is not used in calculating grade point averages. If a student enrolled in an “open-entry, open-exit” course is assigned an “IP” at the end of a term and does not re-enroll in that course during the next term, the appropriate grade will be assigned.

Grade or Credit Option

Students who enroll in courses designated “graded or credit option” may request the credit option instead of a letter grade only by completing a request form through Student Records in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center.

• Students must choose the credit/option no later than the fifth week of a semester-length course or before the completion of 30 percent of the course.

• Before selecting the credit option, students should consult with a counselor. Generally, it is recommended that students select a letter grade in courses satisfying requirements for majors, general education, or a high school course deficiency.

• A maximum of 15 units of credit option coursework earned at an accredited college or university is counted toward the degree requirements of this college.

• Grades of “NP” are considered unsatisfactory for progress probation or dismissal.

• In courses where one performance standard determines unit credit, only a “P” or “NP” is given.

Students may repeat a course in which they received a “NP”, “D”, “F” or “W” one time only. Only the second grade and units in the repeated course will be counted when determining grade point average. A student can request to have the first substandard grade for a repeated course removed from the grade point average calculation, by filling out the Petition to Line Out a “D” or “F” grade through the Student Records Office. Forms are also available online.

Course Repetition

For courses in which a “D”, “F”, “NP” or a “W” were awarded, students may repeat the course one time only at Orange Coast College, Golden West College or Coastline Community College, without any special approval. After two unsuccessful attempts, a student’s registration in the course is automatically blocked. Students may petition the OCC Academic Petition Council for consideration of a third attempt. If approved for repeat, students will register at the end of all priority registration. Petitions are available in the Counseling Office and should be filed at least two weeks prior to the semester start date. Students must meet all registration deadlines.

If grades of “A”, “B”, “C”, or “P” were received for prior course completions, students may petition the Division Dean of the course discipline to determine if the course is eligible for audit.

If a course is repeated within the Coast Community College District, students may petition at the Student Records window in the Watson Hall Enrollment Center for grade line-out to have their grade point averages re-calculated to omit the prior unsatisfactory grade(s) of “D” and “F”. However, previously recorded coursework will not be removed or otherwise changed on the student’s permanent record.

If a grade of “I” (incomplete) is received for a course, a student may not enroll in the course. That course is completed if the student meets the prescribed requirements as set forth by the faculty member issuing the “I” grade.

Repeatability

Courses designated as repeatable may be repeated for credit; however, they may not be taken concurrently. A course may be designated as repeatable only if,

1. the course content differs each time it is offered

AND

2. the student who repeats the course is gaining an expanded educational experience for one of the two following reasons:

a. Skills or proficiencies are enhanced by supervised repetition and practice within class periods; or

b. Active participatory experience in individual study or group assignments is the basic means by which learning objectives are obtained.

3. Disabled students may repeat a special education class beyond the four semester limit if it is determined that continued success in other college courses is dependent on additional repetitions of the special education class. Also, students who exceed the four semester limit may do so only if they demonstrate measurable progress according to their educational plan. (Section 56029, Title 5 of the California Code of Regulations.)

Courses designated as repeatable shall show in the course outline how each segment differs. Students who are unsuccessful (W, D, F, NP) in the first two enrollments in a course are automatically blocked from enrollment in that course.